What is Scenario-Based Learning?

What is Scenario-Based Learning?

It is always important that training delivers results, from achieving learning objectives to changing employee behaviours to positively influencing business outcomes. Scenario-based learning can help deliver results in a range of situations, but what is scenario-based learning? What are the different types and when should you use scenario-based learning?

Let’s start with a definition. Scenario-based learning is a form of experiential learning, where learners learn by doing. It is an immersive experience for learners where they are active participants in the training course rather than passive receivers of information.

Scenario-Based Learning Explained

That’s the definition, but what does it mean in practice? In a classroom-based setting, scenario-based learning is typically achieved through role-playing activities. There is much more scope for scenario-based learning in online training as you can create a range of different exercises, features, and elements that simulate the real world so learners can do, try, and practice.

With an e-learning course, there is also less embarrassment for learners as not everyone is comfortable participating in group role-playing exercises.

The features of online scenario-based learning include:

• Learners develop skills and knowledge by practicing in safe but realistic simulated environments.
• Learners have to make decisions as part of the scenario.
• Learners are allowed to make mistakes.
• The situation presented to learners in the scenario can require problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Learners may have to apply previously learned skills or knowledge.
• Learners often have to use other skills, from technical skills to soft skills like communication and teamwork.

Types of Scenario-Based Learning

Scenario-based learning can take many forms. The main types include:

• Decision-making scenario-based learning – learners are presented with a situation to resolve by making decisions.
• Branching scenario-based learning – similar to decision-making scenario-based learning except it is non-linear. In other words, with branching scenario-based learning, there can be multiple routes through and outcomes to the scenario depending on the decisions that learners make.
• Simulation scenario-based learning – where learners practice skills and processes in a simulated environment. This could be using a software application or a piece of equipment, for example.

In terms of the technologies that can be used, scenario-based learning elements can be anything from straightforward text-based features to full virtual reality or mixed reality environments and everything in between.

Examples of training topic areas that can benefit from scenario-based learning include:

• Cybersecurity training
• Compliance training
• Sales training
• Customer service training
• Health and safety training
• Training on high-risk tasks
• Critical thinking training
• Leadership training

The Characteristics of a Scenario-Based Learning Element

E-learning courses can include scenario-based learning elements, or the scenario-based learning element can be the entirety of the course. The main characteristics of a scenario-based learning feature or element include:

• The situation – presenting the learner with a relatable situation, often through storytelling. The situation also sets the context of the activity for the learner.
• The problem or action – within the situation presented to the learner there will be a challenge or problem to resolve, or an activity or action to complete.
• The decisions and choices – learners are presented with options which they must choose to resolve the problem or complete the activity.
• The outcomes and consequences – the outcomes and consequences as a result of the learner’s decisions and actions.
• The feedback and learning – feedback and learning are crucial as scenario-based learning elements shouldn’t be viewed as assessments. They can help with the assessment process, but scenario-based learning elements are a training tool, so learners should receive immediate feedback that helps them understand why their actions and/or decisions were right, wrong, could have been better, or could have been worse.

When Should You Use Scenario-Based Learning

Scenario-based learning can be used for a variety of training topics, but it can be at its most powerful and effective in the following situations:

• Training where learners need to practice in order to develop their skills and reach a desired level of competency.
• Training where it is essential that learners understand the consequences of their actions. How they deal with a customer, for example, or how they handle a physical safety-related or cybersecurity-related situation.
• Where there is a safety element involved as scenario-based learning allows learners to practice and make mistakes in a safe environment free from real-world risks.

Engaging Learners Through Active Participation in Training

The whole idea behind scenario-based learning is to get learners fully engaged and involved in the training process rather than being passive participants, as well as to give learners as much opportunity to practice as possible.

The aim is to minimise the learning curve and help learners reach the required level of competency as quickly as possible. In other words, scenario-based learning can help you achieve learning and business objectives while also maximising return on investment.

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